AIZAWL, Jan 29: The Thangram Indigenous Peoples’ Movement (TIPM), representing Mizo communities in Assam’s Karimganj district, has expressed its desire for the region to be integrated into the state of Mizoram in order to protect their identity, culture, and religion. The TIPM leaders conveyed their concerns during a meeting with Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma in Aizawl.

The TIPM, which represents the Zo indigenous people of Singla and Langkaih (Longai) valleys in Karimganj, argued that their communities would be best served by being included within Mizoram. A leader, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, explained that the inclusion would ensure the security and preservation of the Mizo way of life.

The area, known as ‘Thangram’ or the western land, is home to different Mizo sub-tribes such as Hrangkhawl, Sakachep, Molsom, Chorei, and Ranglong. The Assam government has identified this area as a forest reserve, creating significant difficulties for the inhabitants. TIPM leaders raised concerns about issues of physical encroachment from majority communities, which they believe further endanger the Mizo people’s cultural integrity.

According to TIPM, over 30,000 people from various Zo ethnic tribes live in the Singla and Langkaih valleys, which cover an area of more than 180 square miles. This region shares its borders with the Mamit district in western Mizoram. The TIPM highlighted the struggles of these tribal communities, who face difficulties in establishing settlements and agricultural farmlands, with many of the region’s roads remaining in a dilapidated state.

The TIPM has been advocating for the merger of ‘Thangram’ with Mizoram since 2020 and formally submitted a memorandum in 2021 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging their support for the integration.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma expressed his awareness of the issues faced by the Mizo communities in these valleys. He assured the TIPM leaders that the Mizoram government would explore all possible means to assist their efforts. Lalduhoma also stated that his government would not hesitate to take necessary action to support the Mizo people’s wish to be a part of Mizoram.

The TIPM had previously sought assistance from the former Mizo National Front (MNF) government under Chief Minister Zoramthanga to address the challenges faced by the Mizo communities in Assam’s Karimganj district.